I will be highlighting famous people from Spanish-speaking countries from time to time. Lately the most famous Puerto Ricans have been Jennifer Lopez and J.J. Barea. So here is a little bit of information about each of them so you can keep up on the latest. It’s fun to know what the latest is as a conversation piece with native Spanish speakers.

J.J. Barea – Over the past couple of weeks, J.J. Barea has been participating in parades in Dallas and in Puerto Rico. He is the backup point guard on the NBA champion Dallas Mavericks. He recently shot himself into fame by picking apart the Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Miami Heat. He was a crucial part of the Mavericks’ championship run. People call him JJ, but his full name is José Juan Barea Mora. At 5’9” tall, he is the envy of short guys playing at local gyms everywhere. Let’s not to forget to mention he is dating the former Miss Universe, Zuleyka Rivera, who is also from Puerto Rico.

Jennifer Lopez – J-Lo has become the center of attention again. She was one of 3 judges on American Idol this year, and the lone female alongside Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson. She was actually born in the Bronx, New York to Puerto Rican parents from Ponce, Puerto Rico. She is an actress, singer, record producer, dancer, television personality, fashion designer and television producer. She is currently married to singer Marc Anthony. She gave birth to twins on February 22, 2008. Jennifer Lopez was named ‘People’ magazine’s Most Beautiful Person in April 2011.

In my opinion, these 2 have been the most famous Puerto Ricans recently. If you agree or disagree, I would love to hear your comments.